About Somnath Temple
Somnath Temple rises above the Arabian Sea at Prabhas Patan on the coast of Saurashtra. Tradition names it the first of the twelve Jyotirlingas of Shiva. The site has a dramatic history: earlier temples here were raided and rebuilt several times, most famously after the attack by Mahmud of Ghazni in 1026. The present Chaulukya style temple was rebuilt after independence and consecrated in 1951.
A long promenade lets visitors watch waves break against the seawall, where an arrow pillar notes that no land lies between this point and Antarctica. Nearby Prabhas Patan holds Triveni Sangam, the meeting of three rivers, and Bhalka Tirtha, where Krishna is said to have left the world. The evening sound and light show retells the temple's story.
What to see
- Jyotirlinga sanctum facing the sea
- Baan Stambh arrow pillar
- Evening sound and light show
- Triveni Sangam at Prabhas Patan
- Bhalka Tirtha linked to Krishna
Visiting Somnath Temple: practical guide
- Best time
- October to March
- Hours
- Usually 6 am to 10 pm with aarti at 7 am, noon and 7 pm
- Entry
- Free; small fee for the light show
- Dress code
- Modest clothing; no shorts
- Nearest airport
- Keshod Airport (IXK), 50 km
Tips from experienced pilgrims
- Phones and cameras must be deposited outside
- Stay for the 7 pm aarti and then the show
- Combine with Gir National Park nearby
Festivals and special days
- Maha Shivaratri
- Kartik Purnima Fair
- Shravan month
Etiquette for visitors
Guidance drawn from Hinduism tradition. Always follow signs and local custodians.
- Remove shoes before entering temples and some homes.
- Dress modestly with shoulders and legs covered.
- Some temples, such as Puri Jagannath, admit only Hindus; respect posted signs.
- Ask before photographing shrines, rituals or cremation grounds.
- Use your right hand to accept prasad, the blessed food offering.
- Avoid bringing leather items or meat into temple grounds.
Location map
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Frequently asked questions
Where is Somnath Temple?
Somnath Temple is in Prabhas Patan, Gujarat, India, Asia. GPS coordinates: 20.8880, 70.4012. The nearest airport is Keshod Airport (IXK), 50 km.
What is the best time to visit Somnath Temple?
October to March
Is there an entry fee for Somnath Temple?
Free; small fee for the light show Opening hours: Usually 6 am to 10 pm with aarti at 7 am, noon and 7 pm
What should I wear when visiting Somnath Temple?
Modest clothing; no shorts
Which religion is Somnath Temple sacred to?
Somnath Temple is sacred to Hinduism. Active place of worship.
